A bike basket can convert any bicycle into a cargo bike. Bike baskets can be 10 to 20 inches across: small enough to fit a child’s bike or large enough to carry a case of beer. For carrying grocery bags, the width should be at least 7 inches.

Advantages of basket for bike:
* Easy to keep an eye on items in the basket: especially important when transporting dogs and other pets. Dedicated pet baskets, such as those by Snoozer, are also available.
* Retro good looks (wicker basket for bike).

Disadvantages of basket for bike:
* Additional weight can make bicycle difficult to steer. Unsecured, loose items that slide from side to side are especially dangerous.
* Basket mountings can interfere with brake and gear-shift cables on the handlebars.
* Can block front reflector or lamp. For these cases, baskets that can mount a reflector/lamp on the front enable the reflector/lamp to be shifted to the basket.

Simple baskets are attached to the handlebars with straps or hooks. Some have handles and can be lifted up and carried into the grocery store. This also works well with folding bikes.

For medium sized baskets and heavier cargo, bracket-mount baskets are used. The mounting bracket is bolted on to the handlebars and the basket is attached with a quick-release mechanism. A small padlock can prevent theft.

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If you are looking for a new dirt bike, one of the best things you can do is read some reviews. When you read reviews you get the chance to see what other people just like you have to say about different bikes. This gives you a much better idea on the pros and cons of the bike, and decide whether or not it is the right model for you. This is the best thing you can do because then you know you will make the right decision and not regret buying it. There are plenty of consumer reviews to read. These are people just like you so you know the reviews are accurate and honest.

The KTM 50 is one of the latest dirt bikes to be released. This is a single-cylinder bike with a 2-stroke engine, reed valve configuration, and takes gas/oil premix. It has an automatic transmission and is considered as being a youth model bike. This is a bike that even professional and famous motocross racers give to their kids because they know how high quality a bike this is.

The aesthetic appeal is one of the most favored features of this model of bike. It is definitely a joy to look at, and any child would love it. This is no cheap toy. You can tell just by looking at it how quality this bike is and it is definitely impressive.

This is a bike for a child between the ages of 6-10 years. It is perfectly sized for a child of this age. It is large enough to make it fun and make them feel like they are riding a grown up bike, but it is also small enough to be safe and not be too overpowering for the child. It is a pretty advanced bike so it is not a good starting bike. It should only be used for a child that has previous riding experience.

This is really the perfect bike to give to a kid if you want them to get into the professional side of motocross racing. It features cutting edge technology and a padded seat so the ride is always comfortable. Whether your child wants it for play or to use competitively, this is the perfect model bike. It is a competitive motorcycle kids can show off and feel proud riding.

There is a lot of power behind this bike. It is important to not allow too young a child ride it, as this could pose a danger. You want to make sure your child is of proper age to rid this bike before getting on. If you are interested in buying this bike for your child, you can check out any KTM store or go online to find what you need. It is a very popular bike so you may need to look around at a few different places to find one that has it in stock. Any kid would love this bike and would feel lucky to get it.

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Here are a few key parts of a mountain bike;

Bottom Bracket
This essential bicycle component is an important part of the bike frame and has a space for the axle which is attached to the pedal crank. In absence of bottom bracket, the pedals do not turn.

Crank:
The crank is a main connection between the bottom bracket axle with the pedal. It usually comes in two different sets, one with two cranks and another with a set of chain rings or sprockets through which the chain passes.

Cassette:
The cassette refers to a cluster of chain rings used on a rear wheel. This is mainly used for attaching hub to the bike frame and the chain passes through it.

Hub:
The hub forms the central and integral part of the bike’s wheel. It is comprises of an axle – which attaches to the forks on the front wheel, an outer shell – which attaches to the wheel spokes and bearings – which connect the axle to the hub shell allowing it to rotate freely.

Important Bike Parts

Present day bike industry uses prominent technologies to produce various bike parts using latest quality materials. It is important to choose the most suitable bike parts that provide strength and lightness to your bike. However, you can make cheap bike parts with some of the materials such as steel or even plastic. Plastic is used because it is light but not considered very durable and does flex. Let’s look at some of the prominent bike parts which can be used conveniently according to your specifications.

Chain sets, Gears, Brakes and Wheels:
In earlier days, gears, chain sets and wheels were made from steel as it is very strong but heavy at the same time. As the technology developed, alloy was seen in use to make stronger and more durable biking equipment. Today, the market is full of manufacturers who make special bike parts by using the most suited material for giving the best riding experience to riders. Also, these companies come with innovative designs combined with practical ideas to attract bikers who yearn for something different and more advanced every time.

Bike Parts Manufacturers:
There are so many smaller and medium manufacturers, who are well-known to manufacture special kinds of pedals, chain sets, brakes, gears, and other ‘trick bits’ by using more expensive, lighter materials, like titanium and carbon.

If you use any of the above mentioned bike parts and accessories, your friends will surely envy you and you’ll be known to sport a different style. Make your different style statement by choosing the right bike parts.

Pocket Rocket Bikes are miniature versions of regular motorcycles. These bikes are designed on the same lines as the regular bikes and incorporate almost the same features. Typically, these bikes have a length of 3 to 4 feet and a height of one and a half to two feet. The bikes are designed exclusively for children and are meant for riding off the main roads. These Pocket Rockets are equipped with all the safety features which make it risk free for children to handle and operate these mini bikes.

Affordable Fun on Pocket Rocket Bikes

Pocket Rocket Bikes are quite easy on the pocket thus making it very affordable for a lot of passionate bike enthusiasts. You have two types of Pocket Bikes, a gas powered pocket bike like the Cagillari Daytona Pocket Bike and Electricity driven Pocket Bikes like the Razor Pocket Bikes which is a trademark product of Razor Company.

Razor Pocket Bikes

The Razor Pocket Bikes are extremely popular bikes that are exact replicas of the bigger racing bikes. These bikes can reach up to a speed of 15 mph and are a pleasure to ride. With ten inch tires and the aerodynamics of a racing bike, these rockets give forty minutes of absolute driving pleasure when the batteries are fully charged. These bikes come with a lot of safety features and its low speeds allow children to safely negotiate the obstacles while driving around in the neighborhood.

There are a few more things that you need to know before you buy a Rocket Bike. Always wear safety gear like riding glasses, safety gloves, jacket, knee protector, boots and helmet while taking the bike out for a spin around your neighborhood. Next, check whether the bike needs any gas and oil. Lastly, you should know that this bike uses a clutch system and know how to operate the bike.

Have you ever considered bike riding together with your pals or family? If you want to spend your time bonding together with your friends and family, you may choose to benefit from Central Park bike rental and be capable to enjoy that exciting exploration. Your bike riding activities are worth your time and discovery which this bike rental in NYC can ensure.
Bike riding is recognized to be one interest that is healthy and full of discovery. You will get access to several sightings along the way if you were to bike ride at Central Park. you will also be able to enjoy the view of the park itself in a healthier way. So, in case you are going to use your time with your friends in the park, besides walking your way around, you could really rent a bike to help you go around and as well allow you to find out more about this very popular park in NYC.

The entire panorama of the park is made for bike riding. You will get access to paths, bicycle lanes, up and down hills as well. This wonderful landscape makes it a perfect place to bike ride with your friends or family members. Many bikers including amateurs, professionals and those who wish to visit the place to experience what it is to bike in Central Park because Central Park is known to many bike lovers.

In the event you wish to bike ride in Central Park, you do not have to actually bring a bike with you. Even in case you go there after your hours of work or after any other commitments that you have, you can truly have fun in bike riding there. All you need to do is to seek a Central Park bike rental company that is able of providing you everything you need when it comes to safe bike riding.

To make sure that you’ll be capable to experience an pleasing and safe biking experience, you might choose to benefit from a bike tours company that will not only be capable to offer you bikes you need to ride on but biking gear as well such as maps, helmets and other biking gear easily. You will find it easier for you and the people you are biking with to discover your way across Central Park’s premises and not worry yourself of getting lost through this rental service. This bike made better and safe for New Yorkers and its visitors.

Cycling is not an expensive hobby. You have your bike, bike clothes, helmet, sports water bottle, bike repair tools and the Park Tool PCS-10 Mechanic Repair Stand. Once you have all this stuff your pretty much set.

Within that short list many people would say that they have no need for a bicycle work stand. They believe they can do all their maintenance with the bike propped up against a wall or a chair.

I doubt that any basic maintenance can be achieved without having the wheels off the ground. What most people do in this case is actually turn their bike upside down with the wheels facing the sky. By doing this the handlebars and saddle can get scratched or damaged very easily.

Anyway, how are you supposed to work on the bike in that way? How can you change gears if you can’t even reach the levers on the handlebars?

What I found when I used to do this is that I would get sore knees and a sore back from all the bending and kneeling. This can’t be good for you! A popular bike stand like the Park Tool PCS-10 can help you avoid any discomfort when repairing your bike.

There are so many more advantages to owning a bike repair stand, especially if it is a Park Tool bike stand.

If you like to rebuild bikes for fun or know someone who does then a top quality bicycle work stand is a must. The amount of time and effort a stand can save you is amazing.

A bike stand like the Park Tool PCS-10 Mechanic Repair Stand will also save you money. To keep your cycle in tip top condition you will need to maintain and clean it regularly. Many people get their bike maintained at a bicycle shop and pay good money for the service.

Wouldn’t it be cheaper to own your own bike rack and go through the basic maintenance steps yourself? Finally you can be independent of high priced bike shops.

If you have kids who are always crashing or breaking something off on their bikes then being a regular at the local bike shop will become costly in the end.

Amazing Features of The Park Tool PCS-10

* The Park Tool PCS-10 is an upgrade from the PCS-9 Home Mechanic Repair Stand to make set up, take down, and use faster and easier.
* Clamping pressure is fully adjustable and can rotate making for a convenient working position. It has a composite top tube for smooth 360-degree clamp rotation. The jaw covers are also replaceable.
* Quick release height adjustment, (99 to 145-centimeter). Working on the bikes at a comfortable height is a huge improvement. It is tall enough to hold the bike at a level that does not require stooping or sitting to get access to the bottom bracket and rear cassette. No back pain!
* Cam-type clamp allows single action clamping of tubes (24 to 76-millimeter)
* Has excellent stability with the three-point leg system with reinforced center yolk.
* Works well with many recumbents and bikes with odd shaped tubing.
* Folds up very solidly for storage or transport. Folds to 41″ (104cm).
* To complement the bike stand and make life easier Park Tool has some additional products such as the tool tray or tool box kit. All available with Park Tool.

Check out this Bike Repair Stand website /”>Bike Repair Stand/a>.

Have you already planned to hire services of bike rentals NYC for bike rental Central Park during your New York travel? Then you’ll need to be prepared for the biking tour. Since the bike tour on the bike or the bicycle is going to make your body tiresome and sore you need to train your legs, lungs and body in a perfect way. Even though you are a fit person, this tour may make you exhausted if you are not prepared in advance.

Firstly, you need to analyze that the bile that you have is apt for the bike tour or not. Even though you have been riding your bike or bicycle for quite some time, it is going to be difficult when there is an actual bike tour. There is difference between regular riding and the bike tour. Thus, you must visit go to a nearby sports store where you may find different range of bicycles. Test them and see if they are better than the current one you already have.

If you are using your own bicycle for this, you need to become comfortable with your bicycle. For this you must start taking rides in the area where traffic is less. Do this some days prior to the bike tour and practice this for an hour every day. You must start with riding 10 miles in one hour and then slowly and steadily you must add miles and time to your target. Once you are comfortable take up riding 40 mile and that is around 4 hours, you must put panniers and picnic supplies on the bicycle. Now, you must ride it on the picnic place for some time.

You may even take up grocery shopping with the loaded panniers. This is a good way of becoming bike-savvy before actually paying for the bike rental NYC. You must even take rides on the hilly areas once you get accustomed to the gears and the bike’s speed and all. If there are hilly terrains near your house then it will really help you out. And if not, then it would be apt to purchase a nominal cost exercise bike having the feature of uphill work out position.  The pre programmed sessions will help you to get trained in exercising with going 3-4 hills up and then down option.

Performing Mountain Bike Tricks

There is no shortage of mountain bike tricks which can be accomplished with each having to deal with its own amount of complexity and among the more well known ones is without a doubt dirt jumping, cross country and a lot more. As an example, whenever a mountain biker tries out cyclo cross, that is something somewhere between mountain riding and road biking, cyclists battle on as well as off the course, moves through obstacles and in many cases need to navigate rivers. The most famous mountain bike trick is definitely downhill biking which usually is really quick and it is something nearly all downhill mountain bikers love to do, this also is about extremes in addition to strong riding which can be loaded with thrills and spills.

And, any time bikers decide to use dirt jumping they are performing mountain bike tricks that involve leaping high over dirt hills that are especially designed for them and while the biker is actually airborne there exists opportunity for performing stunning tricks with his or her bike. Basically, mountain bike tricks will involve carrying out loops and also jumps and also twirls in the air and whenever these are carried out to perfection, there is certainly a lot of artistic content which makes every mountain bike trick really amazing to see. Learning mountain bike tricks is not all that easy therefore it may take riders quite a few years to perfect them, in particular when they are going to perform at competition levels. The backbone of mountain bike tricks is certain to be bike jumps even if they might not be precisely the kinds that mountain biking is most well known for.

It’s normal for the majority of mountain bike tricks to be executed whilst the rider is in mid-air, therefore knowing the right moment to produce the actual jump is vital to executing the trick perfectly. Plus, the quantity of diverse leaps can boggle the mind with the one most often used is the double which primarily would mean performing the jump in two sections with the first naturally being the take-off and then the second is definitely the landing. In the middle, the biker is able to do whatever new trick he or she has learned up this type of trick is referred to as the gap jump.

Yet a different sort of mountain bike trick will be the one often known as tabletop which is a jump regarded to be a trick that contains the take-off, table and then the landing and here is the jump from which the roller jump derives its inspiration. When a mountain biker performs these kinds of tricks it will be certain to leave the spectators gasping, and when a biker is especially adept at his / her trick, it’s going to all appear too easy to execute. Even so, one should not try to carry out any of these tricks without proper instruction and also with someone around to show you the ropes. A number of the amazing mountain bike tricks entail turning the bike at right angles to one side plus the whip is another well-known technique that involves making the back of the bike flips sideways. All that is needed is appropriate apparatus that will make sure that the biker is able to do even the most hazardous tricks with no trouble and this equipment is more than the cycle, and comprises protective gear also. Consequently, before taking to doing mountain bike tricks, makes certain that you’ve got the necessary apparatus to safeguard you in the event of a accident.
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Vincent Motorcycles, “the makers of the world’s fastest motorcycles”, began with the purchase of HRD Motorcycles, less the factory premises, by Phil Vincent in 1928.

HRD was founded by the British Royal Flying Corps (RFC) pilot, Howard Raymond Davies, who was shot down and captured by the Germans in 1917. Legend has it that it was while a prisoner of war that he conceived the idea of building his own motorcycle, and contemplated how he might achieve that. It was not until 1924 that Davies entered into partnership with E J Massey, trading as HRD Motors. Various models were produced, generally powered by JAP (JA Prestwich Industries) engines.

Unfortunately, though HRD motorcycles won races, the company ran at a loss, and in January 1928 it went into voluntary liquidation. The company was initially bought by Ernest Humphries of OK-Supreme Motors for the factory space, and the HRD name, jigs, tools, patterns, and remaining components were subsequently offered for sale again.

Phil Vincent

Main article: Phil Vincent

Philip Vincent was advised to start production under an established name. He had built a motorcycle of his own in 1924, and in 1928 had registered a patent for a cantilever rear suspension of his own design. In 1928 Philip Vincent left Cambridge University with an engineering degree and, with the backing of his family wealth from cattle ranching in Argentina, acquired the trademark, goodwill and remaining components of HRD from Humphries for 450.

The company was promptly renamed Vincent HRD Co., Ltd and production moved to Stevenage. The new trademark had “Vincent” in very small letters above “HRD” written large. After World War 2 Britain had an export drive to repay its war debts, and the USA was the largest market for motorcycles, so in 1949 the HRD was dropped from the name to avoid any confusion with the “HD” of Harley Davidson, and the motorcycle became The Vincent.

In 1929 the first Vincent-HRD motorcycle used a JAP single-cylinder engine in a Vincent-designed cantilever frame. The earliest known example extant exists in Canberra, Australia. Some early bikes used Rudge-Python engines. But after a disastrous 1934 Isle of Man TT, with engine problems and all three entries failing to finish, Phil Vincent (with Phil Irving) decided to build their own engines.

Phil Vincent also experimented with three wheeled vehicles, amphibious vehicles, and automobiles. In 1932 the first 3-wheeler, “The Vincent Bantam” appeared, powered by a 293 cc SV JAP or 250 cc Villiers engine. It was a 2.5 cwt delivery van with a car seat and a steering wheel. The Bantam cost 57-10-0 and the windscreen and hood option cost 5-10-0. Production ceased in 1936.

Phil Irving

Main article: Phil Irving

In 1931 Phil Irving joined Vincent as chief engineer. His first engine design was an OHV 500 cc single-cylinder engine in 1934. The standard motor was known as the Meteor and the sports motor was the Vincent Comet; it was distinguished from earlier Vincent models of that name by the eries-A prefix. There was a TT replica & the Comet Special (basically a TTR with lights, horn etc), which used a bronze head. The Meteor motor produced 26 bhp (19 kW) @ 5300 rpm,

An unusual feature of the valve design for these motors was the double valve guides, and the attachment of the forked rocker arm to a shoulder between the guides, to eliminate side forces on the valve stem and ensure maximum valve life under racing conditions.

The Series-A Comet could do 90 mph (140 km/h), but Phil Vincent and his racing customers wanted more.

1936 Series A Rapide

Main article: Vincent Rapide

Legend has it that Irving accidentally put a side-view tracing of the Vincent 500 motor wrong way up on top of an equally sized drawing of the same view of the same motor, and saw, moving the tracing so the crankshafts and idler gears coincided, that the result looked like a possible design for a V-twin. This resulted in the 47.5 V twin which appeared in 1936. (The single leaned forward 23.75.)

With 6.8:1 compression, it produced 45 bhp (34 kW).

The Vincent V-twin motorcycle incorporated a number of new and innovative ideas, some of which were more successful than others.

The Vincent HRD Series A Rapide was introduced in October 1936. Its frame was of brazed lug construction, based on the Comet design but extended to accommodate the longer V twin engine. It continued the use of “cantilever” rear suspension, which was used on all Vincents produced from 1928 through 1955. Other innovations included a side stand.

Pneumatic forks were not to be a Vincent innovation, with both Phils believing girder forks were superior at the time. The Series-A had external oil lines and a separate gearbox.

The 998 cc Series A Rapide Vincent cost $600, produced 45 hp (34 kW), and was capable of 110 miles per hour (180 km/h).

The high power meant that the gearbox and clutch did not cope well.

Engine – 998 cc, 47.5 degree v-twin ohv four-stroke

Bore and Stroke – 84 x 90 mm

Compression Ratio – 6.8:1

Power – 45 bhp (34 kW) @ 5500 rpm

Produced – 1936-1939

Wheelbase – 58.5inch

Dry Weight – 430 lb (200 kg)

Carburettor – 1.0625inch Amal

Gearbox – Burman 4 speed, triplex chain primary, wet multiplate clutch

Frame – Brazed lug duplex tubular cradle. Cantilever rear springing

Front forks – Brampton girder forks

Top Speed – 110 mph (180 km/h)

World War II

In 1937 Phil Irving went to work for Velocette but returned to Vincent Motorcycles in 1943. Vincent primarily made munitions, but Vincent engines were trialled in boats and portable pumps during the war, and the end of hostilities saw Vincent ready to return to motorcycle production.

Vincent already looked to America for sales, and in 1944 Eugene Aucott opened the first USA dealership in the city of Philadelphia. Others followed.

1946 Series B Rapide

The Series B Rapide designed during the war and released to the press before end of hostilities looked radically different from the A: now the oil pipes were internal, and the gearbox was part of the engine casting (Unit Construction). The angle between the cylinders was now 50 instead of the 47.5 of the Series A engine. This allowed the use of the engine as a stressed member of the frame, which consisted of an oil-tank spine with the engine hanging below, and the front and rear suspension attached at the ends. This was considered sensational at the time, and the arrangement was not seen again till the late seventies. The cantilever rear became the most widely used form of rear suspension for motorcycles after 1980, and the use of the engine-gearbox unit as a stressed member became more usual. Brakes were dual single-leading shoe (SLS), front and rear. The 55.5-inch (1,410 mm) wheelbase was three inches (76 mm) shorter than the Series A, and its dimensions were more like a 500 cc bike of the time.

A more modern hydraulic shock absorber and spring assembly later replaced the old twin springs and friction damper. The rear seat was supported by a sub-frame down to the rear frame pivot point, providing a semi-sprung seat with 6 inches (150 mm) of suspension. (Yamaha would rediscover this suspension system nearly 40 years later.)

The Series B had a Feridax Dunlopillo Dualseat, and a tool tray under the front.

The Series “B” incorporated an inline felt oil filter instead of the metal gauze of the Series “A”.

Vincent used quickly detachable wheels, making wheel and tyre changes easier. The rear wheel was reversible, and different size rear sprockets could be fitted for quick final-drive ratio changes. The brake & gear shift were adjustable for reach to suit individual feet. The rear mud guard was hinged to facilitate the removal of the rear wheel. These are things taken for granted on modern motorcycles whereas Vincent was a pioneer in their use.

From today’s perspective, it seems incongruous that Vincent could see the need for, and design, a cantilever rear suspension, as well as incorporate so many other new ideas, yet use Brampton girder forks with friction dampers up front. The two Phils felt that the telescopic forks of the time were prone to lateral flex, so they persisted with girder forks, and did use hydraulic damping in the Series C “Girdraulic” forks. Consider now the use of similar forks on the famous Britten (from New Zealand), the current BMW K1200 Series & the Honda Rune.

Vincent had sold bikes through Indian Motorcycles dealers in the US and in 1948 an Indian Chief was sent to Stevenage to be fitted with a Vincent Rapide engine. The resulting hybrid Vindian did not go into production.

1948 Series C Vincents, “Black Shadow” and “Black Lightning”

Vincent Comet from 1950 at the Zweirad-Museum Neckarsulm

The 1948 Series C Rapide differed from the Series B in having “Girdraulic” front forks which were girder forks with hydraulic damping.

The lack Shadow, capable of 125 mph (201 km/h), and easily recognised by its black engine and gearbox unit, and large 150 mph (240 km/h) speedometer, was introduced. The engine produced 54 bhp (40 kW) @ 5700 rpm in Black Shadow trim.

The Vincent Black Lightning was a racing version of the Black Shadow, with every necessary steel part on it that could be, remade in aluminium, and anything not essential removed altogether, reducing the weight from 458 lb (208 kg) to 380 lb (170 kg). Every bit the racer, it had a single racing seat and rear-set footrests.

The 500 cc Meteor and Comet singles were introduced, along with a 500 cc racer, the Vincent Grey Flash. The Grey Flash racer used Albion gears, for the greater choice of ratios available. The 500 cc bikes used a wet multiplate clutch, while the 998 cc V-twins used a dry, drum-type servo clutch.

Most Vincents were painted black. In 1949 a White Shadow (a machine to Black Shadow mechanical specification, with the Rapide colour scheme) was available, but only 15 were sold, and the option was dropped in 1952. In 1950 16 Red Comets were shipped to the United States. There were also 31 of the 1948 Grey Flash built.

In 1949 HRD was dropped from the name, and the logo now simply said “Vincent”.

Specifications

Make: Vincent HRD

Model: 1948 Series C Black Shadow

Engine: 998 cc (84 x 90 mm bore and stroke) 50 OHV V Twin, 7.3:1 CR, polished conrods

Carburetor: 2 x 1.125-inch (28.6 mm) type 29 Amals

Ignition: Lucas Magneto (1955 models: Kettering ignition)

Electrics: 6v 45w dynamo

Lubrication: Dry sump, 3 US quarts

Gearbox: Integral Vincent four speed, triplex chain primary, dry servo – drum clutch

Final Drive: 530 chain, 46/21 sprockets

Tyres: 3 x 20 in front, 3.50 x 19 in rear

Wheels: Front: 1.65 x 20 in.steel rim; Rear: 1.65 x 19 in.steel rim.

Frame: “Diamond Frame”.(Spine frame with engine as stressed member)

Rear Suspension: Cantilever rear springing

Front forks: Vincent Girdraulic forks, 3″ travel

Brakes: Twin drums, 7 in diameter in front and rear, single leading shoe 7/8″ wide.

Weight: 455 lb (206 kg) – 206 kg Wet – 500 lb (227 kg)

Wheelbase: 55.5 in. (1415 mm)

Seat height: 32.5 in. (826 mm)

Performance: 125 mph / 201 km/h – 55 bhp (41 kW) at 5500 rpm

Fuel Capacity 3.5 gallons / 16 litres

Manufacturer: The Vincent-HRD Co. Ltd., Great North Road, Stevenage, Herts

1954 “Series D” Vincents

The term “Series D” was not used by the factory, but was taken as a natural progression by the motorcycling world. With sales falling, Vincent tried building two new high-speed touring models; the fully enclosed Vincent Victor (an upgraded Comet), the Black Knight (an upgraded Rapide) and the Vincent Black Prince (an upgraded Shadow). They were poorly received by the public. A short-lived unfaired version of the Black Prince was then produced. There was still a Series D Comet. BTW. Russell Wright got the World Land Speed Record at Swannanoa with a Vincent HRD motorcycle in 1955 at 184.83 m.p.h.

Sales declined further after the post war motorcycling boom owing to the availability of cheaper motor cars, so not many “Series D” models were made.

Fireflies, Three Wheelers, and NSU

The Firefly was a 45 cc “clip on” engined bicycle built from 1953 to 1955 under licence from Miller, who were suppliers of electrical components to Vincent. It was also known as the Vincent Power Cycle. The Vincent Owners Club was predictably surprised by this new, cheap, entry-level Vincent.

By 1954, Vincent Motorcycles was in an increasingly difficult situation. In the quest for solvency, Vincent looked for ways to improve their position. The trike idea was revived. In 1932 the first 3-wheeler, “The Vincent Bantam” was first introduced. Powered by a 293 cc SV JAP or 250 cc Villiers engine, it was a 2.5 cwt delivery van which used a car seat and steering wheel rather than the standard motorcycle saddle and handlebars. The Bantam was priced at 57-10-0 with a windscreen and hood available for an additional 5-10-0. It ceased production in 1936 the first year of the Series A motorcycle.

In 1954/1955, due to falling sales of motorcycles, a one-off prototype 3-wheeler powered by a Vincent Rapide 998 cc engine was unofficially named “Polyphemus”. To keep development and production costs low, it used a parts bin-approach, including pieces from Vincent motorcycles, as well as wheels which came from a Morris Minor and a body based on the materials used in the Black Knight/Prince. With the standard Rapide engine the “Polyphemus” could reach 90 mph (140 km/h), and one reached 117 mph (188 km/h) with a Black Lightning engine in 1955.

After several more prototypes the then-named incent 3-wheeler was offered to the public in 1955 at 500 a high price for any vehicle at the time (the BMC Mini launched four years later for 497), especially for a vehicle with no reverse gear, self starter or hood. Vincent sold none.

NSU-Vincent Fox

Unfortunately Vincent motorcycles were hand-built and expensive – only a total of 11,000 machines were sold post-World War Two. A sales slump in 1954 forced the company to manufacture NSU mopeds. Only forty of the two stroke 1955 NSU-Vincent Fox 123 cc were built. There was also an OHV four-stroke NSU-Vincent 98 cc, and Vincent also sold the “NSU Quickly” moped; too well it appears (selling about 20,000 in one year a foot note to how the market had changed again), as NSU took control of its own sales after a year.

The Last Vincent Motorcycle

At a Vincent Owners’ Club dinner in the summer of 1955, Phil Vincent announced that the company could no longer continue in the face of heavy losses and that production of motorcycles would cease almost immediately.

In 1955, one week before Christmas, the last Vincent came off the production line and was promptly labeled “The Last.”

The factory then turned to general engineering, the manufacture of industrial engines, and there was the Amanda water scooter, possibly the first personal watercraft. A Vincent engineer lost his life testing it, drowning at sea.

Vincent tried for a government contract supplying motors for the ML Aviation U120D target aircraft. The motor had to be capable of passing prolonged full power operation tests. This was called the Picador project. The Vincent motor was upgraded with a better crankshaft, Scintilla magneto, double speed oil pump and fuel injection. They did not get a contract. (Russel Wright’s record breaking bike was fitted with a Picador crank and oil pump, by Vincent, while in England for Earls Court, shortly after the 1955 record attempt.)

The company went into receivership in 1959. It has since been bought and sold by other engineering firms. In 1955 Phil Vincent declared that Vincent parts would always be available and indeed they are still available, through the The Vincent H.R.D. Owners Club, The VOC Spares Company Limited, Vin Parts International and other sources.

Subsequent Developments

Egli Vincent

The Vincent Owners Club is the largest single-brand motorcycle club in the world. Vincents are among the most desirable of motorcycling classics. A Black Lightning, in immaculate condition, can bring $125,000.

Vincent engines have been fitted to other frames. The most obvious is the Norvin, using a Norton Featherbed frame, with or without the lower frame tubes. The Norvin is made in the UK by Hailwood Motorcycle Restorations Specialist frame manufacturers also made frames for the Vincent engine.

Fritz Egli, a specialist frame manufacturer based in Switzerland, produced an Egli-Vincent, and around 100 were produced between 1967 and 1972. Egli-Vincents are now being built under licence in France by Patrick Godet. Non authorized copies (by Fritz Egli) are also proposed in the UK by Hailwood Motorcycle Restorations (HMR)and JMR.

In 1996, a partnership was formed to launch the Australian RTV motorcycle. It used a slightly modernised reproduction Vincent engine in an Egli-style frame in capacities of 1000 cc and 1200 cc. They had electric start. After four bikes were built, the company went into voluntary liquidation towards the end of 1998.

Vincent Motors USA founder and president, Bernard Li, acquired the Vincent trademarks in 1994, and formally launched Vincent Motors USA in 1998, spending about $2 million building prototypes that resemble the original Vincent, but utilising modern components, like the Honda RC51 V-twin engine. Vincent Motors is based in San Diego. A resurrection of the Vincent name now seems unlikely as the Honda engine now out of production, and Li was killed in a motorcycle accident.

See also

List of Vincent motorcycles

HRD Motorcycles

Vincent Black Shadow

References

H.R.D. Motor Cycles. Produced by a Rider Auth: Geoff Preece; Publisher: J. Bickerstaff

Vincent Motorcycles: The Complete Story, David Wright Pub: Crowood Motoclassics, ISBN 1-86126-516-6

Vincent and HRD Motorcycles – How They Were Promoted and Sold’, David Wright, Limited edition of 998 copies

^ Ward, Ian (in English). Great British Bikes. Macdonald & Co. ISBN 0-7481-0020-2. 

^ a b 3Wheelers Vincent Three Wheelers (Retrieved 22 October 2006)

^ VincentMotors History (Retrieved 22 October 2006)

^ NTNOA Histories (Retrieved 22 October 2006)

^ Dropbears Histories (Retrieved 22 October 2006)

^ IanChadwick Vincent (Retrieved 22 October 2006)

^ TheVincent Models and Fittings (Retrieved 22 October 2006)

^ Is-it-a-lemon Vincent review (Retrieved 22 October 2006)

^ The Vincent Grey Flash Information (Retrieved 22 October 2006)

^ Vincent production figures

^ Globalnet Vincent Firefly (Retrieved 22 October 2006)

^ The History of Mini – MiniWorld

^ VincentMotors History Page3. (Retrieved 22 October 2006)

^ IanChadwick Vincent (Retrieved 22 October 2006)

^ MindSpring 1953 Works Visit (Retrieved 22 October 2006)

^ The Vincent Picador Drone (Retrieved 22 October 2006)

^ Hailwood Motorcycle Restorations HMR Norvin (Retrieved 3 July 2007)

^ GodetMotorcycles Egli (Retrieved 22 October 2006)

^ Hailwood Motorcycle Restorations HMR Egli-Vincent (Retrieved 22 October 2006)

^ UnionJack RTV Vincent (Retrieved 22 October 2006)

^ Vincent Motors San Diego (Retrieved 22 October 2006)

^ Bernard Li, 1946-2008 (Retrieved 11 November 2008)

External links

Vincent Motors USA

Hunter S Thompson article on the Vincent Black Shadow

Listen to Richard Thompson’s song Vincent Black Lightning 1952

Vincent Motors history, Motorcycledaily.com

v  d  e

British motorcycle manufacturers

Current

AJS  Broom Development Engineering  CCM  Greeves  Megelli  Mtisse  Norton  Triumph

Defunct

ABC (19191923)  Abingdon (AKD) (19031925)  Advance (19051947)  AER (19371940)  Ambassador (19461964)  AJW (19281976)  Ascot-Pullin (19281930)  AMC (19371966)  Ariel (19021970)  Armstrong (19801987)  Baker (19271930)  Bat (19021926)  Baughan (19201936)  Beardmore Precision (19141930)  Blackburne (19131922)  Bradbury (19021924)  Brough (19081926)  Brough Superior (19191940)  BSA (19191972)  Calthorpe (19091939)  Chater-Lea (19001936)  Clyno (19091923)  Corgi (1946-1954)  Cotton (19181980)  Coventry-Eagle (19011939)  Coventry-Victor (19191936)  DMW (19451971)  DOT (19081978)  Douglas (19071957)  Dunelt (19191935)  Duzmo (19191923)  EMC (19471977)  Excelsior (18961964)  Francis-Barnett (19191966)  Greeves (19531976)  Haden (19121924)  Healey (19711977)  Hesketh (19811988)  Humber (18981930)  HRD (19221928)  Ivy (19111934)  James (19021966)  JAP (19031939)  Levis (19111939)  Martinsyde (19191923)  Matchless (18991966)  Montgomery (19021939)  Ner-a-Car (19211926)  New Hudson (19031958)  New Imperial (19011939)  Norman (19351963)  Norton-Villiers (19661972)  Norton Villiers Triumph (19721978)   NUT (19121933)  OEC (19011954)  OK-Supreme (18821940)  P&P (19221930)  Premier (19081921)  Panther (19041967)  Quasar (19751982)  Quadrant (19011928)  Raleigh (18991967)  Rex-Acme (18991933)  Rickman (19601975)  Rover (19021924)  Royal Enfield (1893-1971)  Rudge (19111946)  Scott (19081965)  Silk (19761979)  Singer (19001915)  Sprite (19641974)  Sun (19111961)  Triumph (18851983)  Sunbeam (19121964)  Velocette (19041968)  Villiers (1898-1966)  Vincent-HRD (19281959)  Wilkinson (19111916)  Wooler (19091954)  Zenith (19051950)

Categories: British brands | Companies established in 1928 | Motorcycle manufacturers of the United Kingdom | Defunct motor vehicle manufacturers of the United Kingdom

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